Local Delivery Coordination Service

Local retailers, florists, pharmacies, furniture stores, caterers and office suppliers that need regular deliveries.

You charge per delivery or on a monthly contract and pay drivers per run. You keep the difference after driver pay and software costs.

• Route planning and scheduling
• Calm problem solving
• Customer service
• Managing and paying contractors

• Check how your state classifies drivers: contractor or employee rules vary and can be strict
• Commercial auto or hired and non-owned auto insurance, and general liability cover
• Check whether your city or county requires a business license
• Late or damaged deliveries: set out in writing who is responsible
• Workers' compensation insurance if you do end up hiring employees

Estimates suggest startup costs typically around $1,000 to $8,000, depending on your scheduling software, insurance and setup. You can start without owning vehicles, since the work is done by independent contract drivers you line up.

Monthly revenue is typically estimated at around $1,500 to $7,500, depending on how many local businesses you serve, how many deliveries you handle and your pricing. Driver payments come out of that revenue.

Check how your state classifies drivers, as contractor or employee rules vary and can be strict. Also check commercial auto or hired and non-owned auto insurance, your city or county business license, and put delivery responsibility in writing.